Club Med Phuket Expands Children’s Programs
By Do Je-hae
Staff Reporter
One special feature of Club Med, a French corporation of exotic vacation resorts worldwide, has been its devotion to special facilities and programs for parents with young ones in tow.
The latest venture from Club Med to expand its children's program is the recently-opened "Baby Club" at its Phuket branch.
"First of all, I would like to emphasize that Club Med is the best resort for families who have young children. We have larger facilities, more activities, various programs and a multicultural environment," said Ryan Leach, village chief of Club Med Phuket. "The biggest difference is that there is interaction between parents and children. It's not just babysitting or taking care of children. Children also deserve to have a happy holiday and we offer them unforgettable moments."
With more than 90 villages in 40 countries across five continents, Club Med is one of the world's most renowned holiday organizations. Club Med staff members are called "GOs", or Gentils Organisateurs (gracious organizers). Clients are "GMs", or Gentils Membres (gracious members). The resorts are referred to as villages and the resort manager is called the village chief.
Each resort provides a list of services and activities in a package which includes lodging, food, use of facilities, sports activities, games and shows.
The Baby Club at Club Med Phuket is for little ones aged between 4 and 23 months. It is run by specialists with a limited number of babies under their supervision to ensure the best attention for each baby.
"We have over 40 years of baby care experience and our professional staff is specially trained in childcare. At the Petit Club, children between 2 and 3 years old can have fun playing with friends from various countries of all nationalities under the attentive care of GOs. An exclusive story book with Thai characters, complete with educational quizzes and games has been specially designed for the children," Leach said.
Many parents shy away from leaving their young children in other people's care during vacations, but Leach said that vacationers at Club Med shouldn't have to worry about the quality of their childcare services. "We make sure the children's safety is the top priority."
"The reason some parents are afraid of leaving their children in others' care is because they are worried about their children's safety in terms of both physical and mental health. We are very aware of this and we are prepared for every single issue that could happen at any time," he said.
The resort has maintained a high standard of hygiene and safety. Baby Club staff members must have certificates and experience in nursing or teaching.
Club Med also runs specialized facilities for older children and teenagers up to the age of 17. Its newly-renovated Mini Club ensures days of fun-filled activities in a group setting for children from 4 to 10 years old. The Junior Club provides teens from 11 to 17 years old with their very own "hang-out" space for making new friends.
Club Med initiated its operation in Korea 15 years ago and its travel packages to Bintan, Bali, Phuket, Cherating and the Maldives have enjoyed much popularity among Koreans.
In particular, Phuket is one of the most popular Club Med resorts in Asia, and has attracted many honeymooners.
"I have always thought that Koreans are a great match for Club Med. Koreans are so cosmopolitan and international. Club Med culture is similar to the Korean life style as far as I know. It is very warm and understanding," Leach added.
For more information, visit https://www.clubmed.com.